The space shuttle Endeavour is seen as workers prepare for the grand opening ceremony for the California Science center’s Samuel Oschin Space Shuttle Endeavour Display Pavilion, Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2012, in Los Angeles. Endeavour, built as a replacement for space shuttle Challenger, completed 25 missions, spent 299 days in orbit, and orbited Earth 4,671 times while traveling 122,883,151 miles.

Also present to witness the event, which took place in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion, was Philanthropist Lynda Oschin, widow of Samuel Oschin and Chair of the Board and Secretary of the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation and astronauts James M. Kelly, R. Shane Kimbrough, Leland D. Melvin (Administrator), Barbara R. Morgan (retired) and Garrett E. Reisman (retired).
Bill Nye the Science Guy served as Master of Ceremonies of the event which included business, community and philanthropic leaders as well as more than 500 Science Center School students.

A highlight of the event was a performance of “Men in Black” choreographed by the legendary Debbie Allen and performed by the Debbie Allen Dance Academy and solos sung by Grammy Award-winning James Ingram and America’s Got Talent finalist Sebastien De La Cruz.

NASA photograph by Bill Ingalls

A space shuttle main engine is on display near the space shuttle Endeavour at the California Science center’s Samuel Oschin Space Shuttle Endeavour Display Pavilion, Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2012, in Los Angeles. Endeavour, built as a replacement for space shuttle Challenger, completed 25 missions, spent 299 days in orbit, and orbited Earth 4,671 times while traveling 122,883,151 miles.

“We are delighted that the California Science Center will use Endeavour to inspire a new generation of scientists and explorers and we thank you for helping tell the story of NASA’s historic past as we begin to write the stories of the future today,” said McBride. “The next chapter in space exploration begins now, and we’re standing on the shoulders of the men and women of the shuttle program to reach farther into the solar system.”

Rudolph said, “I want to thank the people of California and the Los Angeles region for so enthusiastically welcoming Endeavour home. Today marks the beginning of Endeavour’s new mission to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers.”

Villaraigosa added, “Having Endeavour at the California Science Center will serve to motivate millions of young people to dream about possibilities and will attract people from around the world to our great city. The Endeavour, as a historical treasure, will be a brilliant centerpiece for Los Angeles and will assist in our city’s economic revitalization.”

Rudolph also reminded participants that their contributions are still welcome for EndeavourLA, a comprehensive fundraising campaign to raise $100 million, to create the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, and support ongoing programs and operations. Members of the public can donate by visiting www.BringEndeavourHome.org. In addition to making a general donation to support EndeavourLA, the public can sponsor a thermal protection system tile and be associated with Endeavour forever. Sponsorship levels begin at $1,000.

The new Samuel Oschin Pavilion is now open to the public. Space Shuttle Endeavour Exhibition viewing times are 10 am, with the last entry at 3:45 pm. Although it is free admission, timed tickets are recommended for a small fee of $3 for non-members and $2 for members who reserve online at www.californiasciencecenter.org.

As part of the Grand Opening activities, a six-day SpaceFest is taking place at the California Science Center. The festival kicked off Oct. 30, and goes through Nov. 4. The hours Tuesday-Friday will be 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and on the weekend from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. NASA will present more than three dozen exhibits, displays, and educational demonstrations honoring aeronautics and space exploration past, present, and future.

Visitors to SpaceFest will be able to learn about current NASA research missions, future space travel, and NASA involvement in enhancing aeronautics. This exciting 6-day event will also provide an opportunity for guests to meet and hear current and former astronauts speaking about their experiences.

The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs and awe-inspiring films. Its mission is as follows:” We aspire to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences, because we value science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people’s lives.”
For more information, visit www.californiasciencecenter.org.

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